Clock Changes and Road Safety in the UK
When the clocks go back, the evening rush hour moves into darkness for many people, which has road-safety consequences.
The dark commute
After the autumn change, sunset in London comes before 17:00 for several months, and earlier in Scotland. Many people leave work after sunset, so the evening commute happens in the dark. Road-safety charities regularly highlight the first weeks after the change as a time to take extra care.
Practical steps
Drivers should check headlights, clean windscreens and slow down in residential areas. Cyclists should use front and rear lights and reflective clothing. Pedestrians can wear light colours or carry a torch on unlit roads.
The darker evenings are the main reason some people call for permanent summer time, while the darker mornings are the main argument against it.
Frequently asked questions
Why do charities warn about the week after the clocks go back?
More journeys happen after dark, and drivers and pedestrians need time to adjust to the darker evenings.